The Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema was recently notified that the National Endowment for the Arts has terminated our previously awarded grant for the 27th Annual Sidewalk Film Festival, citing a shift in federal funding priorities under the current administration. 

This decision—part of a broader pattern affecting arts organizations nationwide—undermines the decades-long role of the NEA in supporting independent, community-driven cultural work. While the loss of funding presents real challenges, it will not deter our mission.

Sidewalk remains committed to celebrating bold, diverse voices through film, and the 2025 Festival will proceed as planned in downtown Birmingham. We call on our community to stand with us, speak out, and continue supporting independent art that reflects the full richness of American creativity.

Read Our Full Statement Here

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